Ravine Gardens State Park features Whitewater Branch Creek which is spring-fed. It took thousands of years for the flowing water to form two ravines that are up to 120 feet deep with 45-degree angles. As the water flows through the banks, it carries soil and sand into the St. Johns River.

During the Great Depression, Ravine Gardens State Park became one of nine New Deal state parks in Florida. The Federal Works Progress Administration created a fascinating garden that featured over 270,000 plants on the slopes of the ravine. The park opened to the public on July 4th of 1933.

Today, the ravines have been left to naturally transform back to the way Nature intended. Ravine Gardens State Park continues to inspire with its five acres of formal gardens, stone features, fountains, water features, and historic gardens including hundreds of azaleas.

Bike, hike, or drive Main Park Drive Loop, a 1.8-mile paved road that winds around the ravines and offers incredible views of the ravine. Hike Azalea Trail, a two-and-a-half-mile shady trail through the ravine. Trod through muddy and steep paths and cross over historic suspension bridges and stone staircases. Look for birds. foxes, skunks, armadillos, opossums, squirrels, otters, turtles fish, alligators and other wildlife.

Numerous picnic sites equipped with tables and grills are available to visitors. A wheelchair-friendly playground is waiting for you to enjoy. A large covered pavilion, auditorium, and meeting rooms are available for larger gatherings or events at the Roy E. Campbell Civic Center.

Pets are welcome in Ravine Gardens State Park and on the trails when they are kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash. Ravine Gardens State Park is located in Palatka in Putnam County.

For more information: https://www.floridastateparks.org/…/ravine-gardens-state-pa…

Photo Credit: Bobby Putnam – IOF Volunteer